Ahlstrom held groundbreaking for glassfiber tissue plant in Tver, Russia

Ahlstrom held groundbreaking for glassfiber tissue plant in Tver, Russia

Ahlstrom Corporation PRESS RELEASE 10.10.2006 at 11.15

Ahlstrom, a leader in high performance fiber-based solutions, yesterday held a groundbreaking ceremony to launch the construction of its glassfiber tissue production facility in Redkino, Tver Region, Russia. The event was attended by representatives from Ahlstrom, the Russian local government as well as by other dignitaries both from Russia and Finland. The list of speakers included Dmitry Zelenin, Governor of Tver Region, Harry Helenius, Finland's Ambassador to Russia and Jukka Moisio, President and CEO of Ahlstrom Corporation.

"The Tver region with its advanced technological and industrial platforms offers one of the best business environments in Russia. Ahlstrom's decision to build the new glassfiber tissue plant in Redkino brings additional international know how as well as new jobs and tax revenues to the whole region", Mr Dmitry Zelenin said in his speech.

"The rationale behind investing in a glassfiber tissue production facility in Russia is our commitment to offer better service to Ahlstrom's long-term Russian customers. The plant in Redkino is a first step that is likely to be followed by additional investments in the future", said Mr Jukka Moisio.

The EUR 38 million investment strengthens Ahlstrom's position as a leading developer and manufacturer of specialty glassfiber tissues for building and composites materials industries. The project is proceeding according to schedule, and the new plant is expected to be operational during the fourth quarter of 2007.

Ahlstrom is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high performance fiber-based materials. Nonwovens and specialty papers, made by Ahlstrom, are used in a large variety of everyday products, e.g. in filters, wipes, flooring, labels, and tapes. The company has a strong market position in several business areas in which it operates, built upon the company's unique fiber expertise and innovative approach. Ahlstrom's 5,800 employees serve customers via sales offices and production facilities in more than 20 countries on six continents. In 2005, Ahlstrom's net sales amounted to EUR 1.55 billion. Ahlstrom's share is listed on the main list of the Helsinki Stock Exchange. The company website is www.ahlstrom.com.